Brazilian Diego Alves has praised Valencia manager Juan Antonio Pizzi and the clubs supporters following the conclusion of the 2013/14 campaign.

It was a mixed year for Valencia but goalkeeper Diego Alves chose to praise manager Pizzi, who only took charge of the managerial duties at the end of 2013.

Speaking with VCF Play, the 28-year-old praised the impact of the manager.

“I think with the arrival of the new manager, that was the time when we started to improve,” said Diego Alves, as quoted by Inside Spanish Football.

“I think he brought more confidence to the squad and that’s not easy. He came with the club in a very difficult situation, he had to look at what needed changing, there was all the circumstances going on around the club, so it was very complicated for him.

“I think he’s shown how to manage things the right way though and for that reason, we still had options of playing a European final against Benfica.”

The Brazilian international made a point of thanking the Los Che fans for their support throughout the season as well.

Diego Alves added: “I must thank our fans, not just for myself, but on behalf of everyone in the squad.

“The sensation this season is that much has changed on the pitch, we’ve got through very difficult times together with our fans and we know that’s the road ahead for us all.

“If the club wants to grow, if the fans want us to keep fighting to win things, I think we’re on the right track now. We know that the fans are our 12th man and I think we now have everything we need to put Valencia where the club needs and deserves to be.”